What to Do if You Find Asbestos While Renovating

Assess the Situation Carefully

First, identify where the asbestos is located. Common areas include insulation, floor tiles, ceiling tiles, pipe wraps, and roofing materials. If the asbestos-containing material (ACM) is intact and undisturbed, the immediate risk is low. Disturbing or damaging it can release harmful fibers into the air.

Do not attempt to touch, remove, or disturb the material yourself. Even minor disruption can cause fibers to become airborne, increasing the risk of inhalation. If the ACM is damaged, crumbling, or friable, it poses a higher health risk and requires more urgent attention.

Limit Access and Avoid Disturbance

If the asbestos is located in a frequently used area, consider temporarily relocating to reduce exposure. Use clear signage or barriers to prevent accidental disturbance by contractors or visitors unfamiliar with the risk.

DO NOT attempt to remove the asbestos. Instead, leave the material undisturbed and intact until professionals can assess and manage it.

Arrange for Professional Testing and Inspection

To confirm the extent and condition of asbestos, hire a certified asbestos inspector or testing laboratory. They will take samples safely and analyze them to determine the type and amount of asbestos present.

Testing results will guide the appropriate response—whether encapsulation (sealing), repair, or full removal is needed. This step is essential for making informed decisions about your home’s safety.

Plan for Containment or Removal

Once you have the inspection results, consult with qualified asbestos abatement professionals to develop a containment or removal plan. Containment involves sealing the asbestos to prevent fiber release without removing it. This can be an option if the material is in good condition.

If removal is necessary, professionals will isolate the area, use protective gear, and employ specialized equipment to safely remove and dispose of the asbestos materials. The process includes cleaning and air monitoring to ensure no fibers remain airborne.

Prepare Your Home for Safe Abatement

Before professionals arrive, clear the area of furniture and personal items. Seal off the work zone using plastic sheeting and barriers as instructed by the abatement team. This preparation minimizes contamination spread and facilitates thorough cleaning.

During abatement, avoid entering the containment zone. Professionals will maintain strict safety protocols to protect your household and themselves.

Post-Abatement Clearance Testing

After removal or containment, independent air clearance testing is critical. This confirms that airborne asbestos fibers are below hazardous levels and that the area is safe to reoccupy.

Only when clearance is achieved should normal use of the space resume. Keep documentation of all inspections, abatement procedures, and testing results for your records.

Tags: Renovation
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